[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E968]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING OCTOBER 10, 2026, AS NATIONAL INDEPENDENT COSTUME STORE DAY

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                           HON. MIKE QUIGLEY

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 24, 2026

  Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Saturday, October 
10, 2026, as the inaugural National Independent Costume Store Day. 
Created by the National Costumers Association to celebrate independent 
costume stores across the country, this day recognizes the pivotal role 
these stores play in our communities.
  Independent costume stores across the Nation will create their own 
celebrations, including customer appreciation events, costume 
showcases, behind-the-scenes tours, cosplay gatherings, theater 
partnerships, educational programs, charity fundraisers, and other 
activities that highlight what makes their businesses special.
  This day celebrates independent costume stores' support for schools, 
theaters, performers, community events, local traditions, and creative 
expression. These neighborhood businesses are filled with creativity, 
expertise, history, and passion for making our communities stronger. 
Our own local family business, Chicago Costume Company, serves 
Chicagoland and beyond, helping bring local productions, celebrations, 
educational programs, and public events to life.
  Small businesses like Chicago Costume Company are a pillar of our 
creative community, most recently supplying the ``Pope Hats'' for the 
Chicago White Sox. Not only do these endeavors keep manufacturing and 
design jobs local; they showcase our community to the world--Pope Leo 
XIV received his own Pope Hat from the Chicago Costume Company at the 
Vatican.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask everyone to join me in recognizing National 
Independent Costume Store Day and thanking Chicago Costume Company for 
their commitment and service to the Chicago community.

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